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Squirrel Hill

It is a historic, vibrant neighborhood known for its cultural diversity, beautiful parks and bustling business district.

Welcome to Squirrel Hill

Squirrel Hill, located in Pittsburgh's East End, is a historic, vibrant neighborhood known for its cultural diversity, beautiful parks, unique architecture, and bustling business district. A highly desirable area for families, professionals, and students, Squirrel Hill offers a rich blend of history, recreation, and modern amenities that make it one of the city’s most popular places to live.
 
History of Squirrel Hill
 
The name “Squirrel Hill” dates back to the 18th century, when early European settlers noticed the abundance of squirrels inhabiting the densely wooded hills in the area. The neighborhood grew slowly through the 19th century, with development accelerating after the opening of the Forbes and Murray Avenue streetcar lines in the early 20th century. Today, Squirrel Hill remains a diverse, thriving community, blending its historical roots with modern conveniences.
 
Things to Do in Squirrel Hill
 
Squirrel Hill offers a wealth of activities, from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences. Two of Pittsburgh's largest parks, Schenley Park and Frick Park, border the neighborhood, providing residents with easy access to vast green spaces.
 
  • Schenley Park: A 456-acre urban oasis, Schenley Park is home to wooded trails, a golf course, an outdoor swimming pool, and scenic picnic spots. The park also features Flagstaff Hill, a popular place for outdoor movies in the summer, and Phipps Conservatory, a renowned botanical garden showcasing stunning floral exhibits year-round.

  • Frick Park: The largest park in Pittsburgh at 644 acres, Frick Park offers a more rugged, natural landscape, with miles of hiking and biking trails. The park includes Blue Slide Park, a favorite spot for children, and the Frick Environmental Center, which provides environmental education programs and hosts community events. Nature lovers can enjoy birdwatching, creek exploration, and woodland walks.

For movie buffs, the historic Manor Theatre on Murray Avenue offers a curated selection of independent and mainstream films, and the nearby Carnegie Library of Squirrel Hill hosts community events, workshops, and a robust collection of books.
 
Popular Shops and Restaurants
 
The heart of Squirrel Hill is centered around Forbes Avenue and Murray Avenue, lined with a variety of restaurants, cafes, and unique shops. Dining options in the area reflect the neighborhood’s cultural diversity:
 
  • Mineo’s Pizza House and Aiello’s Pizza: Iconic pizzerias that have been local rivals for decades, each with a devoted fan base.

  • Pamela’s Diner: A staple for brunch, famous for its crepe-style pancakes.

  • Bangkok Balcony and Silk Elephant: Well-loved for their authentic Thai and Asian fusion cuisine.

  • Murray Avenue Kosher: A local favorite offering fresh, kosher meals and groceries.

In addition to the dining scene, Squirrel Hill boasts an array of specialty shops like Little’s Shoes, a multi-generation family-owned shoe store, and Ten Thousand Villages, a fair-trade artisan shop with unique home decor, jewelry, and gifts.
 
Architecture and Types of Homes in Squirrel Hill
 
Squirrel Hill's homes are known for their diverse architectural styles, reflecting the neighborhood's development over several decades. You’ll find stately early 20th-century Colonial Revivals, charming Craftsman bungalows, Tudor-style homes with steep gabled roofs, and elegant Victorian houses. Larger, multi-story homes built in the early 1900s sit on tree-lined streets, while smaller mid-century homes and modern townhouses provide a range of options for buyers and renters alike.
 
Many homes feature historic character with brick facades, spacious porches, and intricate woodwork, adding to the charm and appeal of the neighborhood. There are also more contemporary condos and apartments, particularly around the business district, appealing to younger residents and students.
 
Schools in Squirrel Hill
 
Squirrel Hill is home to top-rated public and private schools, making it a popular choice for families. The neighborhood is served by Pittsburgh Allderdice High School, known for its academic excellence and strong extracurricular programs. Private schools like Hillel Academy and Community Day School offer Jewish-focused education, while other private options like Winchester Thurston School are available nearby.
 
Parks and Recreation
 
In addition to Schenley and Frick Parks, the neighborhood is dotted with smaller parks and green spaces. Blue Slide Parkin Frick Park is particularly popular with families, thanks to its iconic slide and playground. The area offers basketball courts, tennis courts, and community gardens, fostering a strong sense of community and promoting outdoor recreation for all ages.
 
Public Transportation
 
Squirrel Hill is well-connected by public transportation, making it easy to commute to other parts of Pittsburgh. The neighborhood is served by several Port Authority bus routes, which offer frequent service to downtown Pittsburgh, Oakland (home to Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Pittsburgh), and surrounding neighborhoods. The bus routes also provide convenient access to major employment centers, shopping districts, and cultural landmarks. The neighborhood’s walkability and proximity to bike lanes further enhance its appeal for residents who prefer eco-friendly commuting options.
 
Community and Demographics
 
Squirrel Hill is one of Pittsburgh's most diverse neighborhoods, with a strong Jewish community that supports several synagogues, kosher restaurants, and markets. It also attracts a mix of professionals, students, and families from all backgrounds. The neighborhood’s welcoming atmosphere, combined with its array of amenities, makes it a vibrant and inclusive community that many are proud to call home.
 
Whether you’re looking to explore its parks, enjoy a meal at a family-owned restaurant, or settle into one of its historic homes, Squirrel Hill offers a dynamic and fulfilling lifestyle in the heart of Pittsburgh.
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Overview for Squirrel Hill, PA

26,213 people live in Squirrel Hill, where the median age is 34 and the average individual income is $49,324. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

26,213

Total Population

34 years

Median Age

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

$49,324

Average individual Income

Around Squirrel Hill, PA

There's plenty to do around Squirrel Hill, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.

92
Walker's Paradise
Walking Score
66
Bikeable
Bike Score
53
Good Transit
Transit Score

Points of Interest

Explore popular things to do in the area, including Greenhouse Co-op, TC Candy and Chocolate Art, and Moonlight Express Strip.

Name Category Distance Reviews
Ratings by Yelp
Dining 1 miles 5 reviews 5/5 stars
Dining 3.43 miles 6 reviews 5/5 stars
Dining 3.34 miles 7 reviews 5/5 stars
Dining 2.99 miles 12 reviews 5/5 stars
Dining 3.16 miles 6 reviews 5/5 stars
Dining 4.19 miles 5 reviews 5/5 stars

Demographics and Employment Data for Squirrel Hill, PA

Squirrel Hill has 9,812 households, with an average household size of 2. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Squirrel Hill do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 26,213 people call Squirrel Hill home. The population density is 9,760.382 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

26,213

Total Population

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

34

Median Age

47.64 / 52.36%

Men vs Women

Population by Age Group

0-9:

0-9 Years

10-17:

10-17 Years

18-24:

18-24 Years

25-64:

25-64 Years

65-74:

65-74 Years

75+:

75+ Years

Education Level

  • Less Than 9th Grade
  • High School Degree
  • Associate Degree
  • Bachelor Degree
  • Graduate Degree
9,812

Total Households

2

Average Household Size

$49,324

Average individual Income

Households with Children

With Children:

Without Children:

Marital Status

Married
Single
Divorced
Separated

Blue vs White Collar Workers

Blue Collar:

White Collar:

Commute Time

0 to 14 Minutes
15 to 29 Minutes
30 to 59 Minutes
60+ Minutes

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